Newcastle United will face off against lower league side Luton Town in the third round of the FA Cup, at the St. James’ Park on Saturday.
The Magpies haven’t had the best of festive periods in their return to the English top-flight but manager Rafael Benitez will be hoping that things take a turn for the better following their 1-0 win over Stoke City on the New Year’s Day. Another win over Luton at the weekend could help the Magpies kickstart a positive run of results.
Benitez will be without the services of defenders Florian Lejeune and Jesus Gamez for the game, while striker Aleksandar Mitrovic is also ruled out with a back problem.
Here’s how the Tynesiders might line up on Saturday at home against the League Two outfit:
The promising young shot-stopper could be in line to make his first-ever appearance for the Newcastle senior side on Saturday.
At right-back, summer signing Javi Manquillo could be set to start, with DeAndre Yedlin likely to be given a rest.
The club captain is a highly influential member of the team and should start in the heart of the defence for Newcastle.
The Congolese defender hasn’t been playing a lot, but Benitez might give him a run out in the cup tie, in place of Ciaran Clark.
The Irishman is back from injury and should start on Saturday, after making a substitute appearance against Stoke.
The Senegalese midfielder scored a brilliant goal in a rare appearance before Christmas in the Premier League. Could get a run out in the cup game.
The former Borussia Dortmund midfielder did not play a single minute in Newcastle’s previous game and might be in for a starting berth against Luton.
The summer signing hasn’t been able to shine through so far this season. A good game on Saturday could do his confidence a world of good.
The goal-scorer from Newcastle’s win over Stoke on Monday should keep his place in the starting line-up in the No.10 role.
The promising youngster has hardly got a chance to showcase his talents this season but could be handed a rare start against Luton.
The former Stoke City man did not take the field against his former side earlier this week. Should feature from the kick-off on Saturday.
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